"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." James 1:2 - 3 NKJV
Notices that this scripture reads, 'When you fall', not, 'if'. We will fall into trials from time to time and it's learning how we can get through them that is the key. Trials can be emotional, physical, relational or financial. Whatever class of trial comes our way, God wants us to be joyful - totally. Now this is a hard thing to do but, think about it for a moment. To be joyful as we go through trials, means that we have access to a gem from God and that is joy. As the joy of the Lord is our strength (Nehemiah 8:10) it is an important tool to have with us.
Did you know that God allows trials and testing to come our way? He sends trials, so that we can overcome them and grow into being more like Jesus. Tony Evans says:
'Christians in crisis are actually undergoing extreme makeovers. Hardships can transform us into something beautiful. That is cause for unspeakable joy - not because of pain but because of the purpose behind it. God use trials to develop us spiritually.'
Trials are unpredictable, they're not all the same either and come in various degrees. The testing of our faith is designed to reveal the quality of one's faith and to produce stamina. This is not easy. Charles F Stanley comments:
'The key to finding joy in adversity is where we place our focus. If we concentrate on our circumstances, we will become disheartened and discouraged. But when we fix our eyes on Jesus, we learn to rejoice in our difficulties because God has promised to work through them to strengthen our faith and to bring us closer fellowship with Himself, teaching us endurance.'
When God allows trials to come our way, it can be difficult and hard to make sense of. In fact, He can allow us to go without any earthly support so that we will turn completely to Him, experiencing His joy, comfort, power and assurance. He teaches us not to respond to trials emotionally, but to respond with faith in His provision. When we learn this, we can endure anything because our focus in on Jesus rather than the problem.
Therefore, if you are going through various trials at this time, start praying joyfully. It may be hard at first but, as you do it, Jesus will meet you halfway. Shout for joy and cast your cares upon Him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7.
Copyriight 2021 Grahame Howard
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